Winter Slip, Trip & Fall Safety Tips

Winter weather is bound to be at our doorstep soon. It’s that time of year when slips, trips and falls occur at an increasing number. Please be safe this winter!

Prevention

• Wear the proper foot gear

• Take small steps to keep your center of balance under you.

• Never run on icy ground

• Keep both hands free for balance rather than in your pockets

• Use handrails from start to finish

• Avoid carrying loads on stairs or be sure you can see over them

• Step carefully out of vehicles and equipment. Don’t jump!

When these helpful hints don’t work and you know you are going to slip, try to reduce your potential injury by:

• Rolling with the fall. Try to twist and roll backwards rather than falling forward

• Relax as much as possible when you begin to fall

• Toss the load you are carrying. Protect yourself instead of the objects being carried

Winter Walking

A few simple precautions can help reduce your chances of being injured from a slip and fall.

• Use floor mats

• Don’t allow rain that has collected on your umbrella to drip onto the floor

• Be aware of potential slip, trip and fall hazards

• Don’t wear shoes with soles of hard plastic, leather or high-heels, especially in wet or icy weather

• Use a handrail where available

The staff and board of Shingletown Medical Center wish you a safe and happy New Year!